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Onslow

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City
—°4
Onslow (Australia)
ℹ️

Practical info — Onslow

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🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

  • Plan your visit during specific full moon dates (March to October) to witness the spectacular 'Staircase to the Moon' optical illusion.
  • Always check the local tide charts before heading out to fish or exploring the coastal mangroves.
  • The weather is very hot and arid; always carry plenty of drinking water when driving out to see the Termite Mounds.
  • Prepare for the remote outback location-fuel and everyday supplies are noticeably more expensive here.

🍽 Food

🍽
Local Mud Crab

Catch your own in the creeks or look for it on the seasonal menu at the local pub.

🍽
Reef Fish (e.g., Coral Trout)

Outstanding local catches often available at the local hotel or if you take a fishing charter.

🍽
Classic Aussie Breakfast

Fuel up with bacon, eggs, and a strong flat white coffee at the cafe on the main street.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍
Onslow General Store

The central hub for picking up everyday groceries, cold drinks, and basic outback supplies.

🛍
Visitor Centre Souvenirs

Stop here to pick up locally made Pilbara crafts and detailed region maps.

🧘
Ian Blair Memorial Walkway

A scenic boardwalk offering elevated views out over the ocean and the local salt works.

🧘
Sunrise Beach

The good spot for an early morning stroll to collect shells and enjoy the absolute silence.

Onslow is a characterful and historically rich coastal town situated in the vast Pilbara region of Western Australia. Unlike most coastal towns in the state, its unique geographical orientation allows visitors to experience the rare phenomenon of witnessing both the sun rising and setting over the ocean. This quiet destination provides a great blend of outback landscape and spectacular coastal scenery. The town's shoreline is defined by its two main stretches of sand: Sunrise Beach and Sunset Beach, both perfectly named for the dramatic views they offer at either end of the day. Onslow is also the primary gateway to the pristine Mackerel Islands, a marine paradise located just offshore that provides world-class fishing, diving, and snorkeling in spirited coral reefs. Between March and October, Onslow becomes a prime location to view the famous 'Staircase to the Moon' natural illusion. The town is easily accessible via the North West Coastal Highway or by regional flights. Visitors can enjoy fresh local catches at the town's welcoming pubs, immersing themselves in the authentic, relaxed atmosphere of the remote Australian outback.

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Geography

Population
813
Coordinates
-21.63825, 115.11344

Facts

  • Located in the Pilbara region
  • Staircase to the Moon location
  • Gateway to Mackerel Islands
  • Sunrise and sunset over the ocean
  • Major salt exporter
  • Near the Ashburton River mouth
  • Historic ruins at Old Onslow
  • Very remote outback climate

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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Sights in the town Onslow (4)

War Memorial🏺 historical

A memorial in Onslow commemorating those who served in various conflicts.

Onslow Visitors Centre and Museum🏛 museum

A visitor centre and museum in Onslow focusing on the region's history.

Sunset Beach🎡 recreation

A scenic beach in Onslow, great for watching the sunset over the ocean.

Sunrise Beach🎡 recreation

A beach in Onslow known for its beautiful sunrise views.

Frequently asked questions

Onslow: where is it located?
Onslow is located in Australia.
Onslow: what is there to see?
Highlights include War Memorial, Onslow Visitors Centre and Museum, Sunset Beach.
Onslow: why is it worth visiting?
Onslow is a characterful and historically rich coastal town situated in the vast Pilbara region of Western Australia.
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